Description

S. Clemente

The archeological complex of S. Clemente is the perfect example of how Rome was built on the archeological overlap of diverse time periods. The primitive church of S. Clemente, which today is underground, has its origins dating back to the second half of the 4th century A.D., and was modified from the existing context of a roman house, or domus, from the 3rd century A.D., which in turn sprang up slowly from an even earlier structure.

This last one is separated by a narrow passageway just over 80 centimeters wide from an Insula, or large habitable structure, in which a Mitreo, or place of worship for the occult, was established in the 3rd century.

In another level located in the subterranean part of the S. Clemente, there is also the stream bed of the ancient torrent known as Clivus Labicanus, which once flowed into the lake of Nero, which today is occupied by the Colosseum.

Saints John and Paul

The Roman houses in Celio represent an excellent example of the original architectural solution of three Roman houses from the 2nd century A.D. They were later transformed into a single shop with a street level storefront in the first part of the 3rd century A.D.

In the 4th century A.D. the building then became the house of a nobleman, and the beautifully conserved decorations that we see today are from that period. The last transformation dates back to the same IV century, when because of the martyrdom of Saints John and Paul (and also Crispo, Crispiano and Benedetta), a confesso, or a rectangular niche with a slightly elevated landing, decorated with thematically Christian paintings, was created. Finally, in the 5th century A.D., the construction of the wonderful church began.

The Roman houses can therefore be considered a pristine and singular example of a pictorial conservation that is found nowhere else in Rome. They represent a modern museum on the interior, where rare china, amphora, and precious materials had also been conserved, and they came to light centuries later during the course of the excavations.

Includes

Expert archaeological guide

Entrance fee

Excludes

Meals and drinks

Personal expenses

Tips and gratuities

Optional activity costs

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Please Note

Children 10 years old and below are free of charge.

Rates for larger groups are available upon request. Please inquire.

The underground sites where this tour is conducted are easily accessible by anyone (S. Clemente is even equipped for disabled visitors) and do not have any particular perils.

Option to be picked-up from hotel is available upon request for an additional cost. Please inquire.